Organisers of the popular Stowmarket Christmas Tree Festival say visitor numbers at the 2017 event could be record-breaking.
The spectacular festival, in its 13th year, saw 400 creatively decorated trees in St Peter and St Mary’s Church as well as in Abbots Hall in the Museum of East Anglian Life, the town’s library and in the town centre.
Decorators from schools, groups, charities and organisations in the town get well and truly involved in the festival with exciting and original designs.
The event, which began on November 25 and ends tomorrow, is expected to have pulled in around 30,000 visitors to the town, including some who have travelled across the world to see the trees.
Some of the more unusual creations over the years have included an optical illusion tree, one made from 600 buttons and another from inflated rubber gloves.
Judy Eden, event coordinator, said the festival has once again been a resounding success.
“All the comments we have received have been absolutely wonderful,” she said. “It’s so good for the town.
“The festival brings so many people to Stowmarket, whether they are staying in B&Bs or with family nearby.
“The visitor numbers half-way through were at 20,000 so we’re expecting more than 30,000 at the close of the festival, which would be a record.
“The festival finishes on Saturday but we will take the trees down at the church on Sunday after the service at noon and anyone is welcome to join us and help.”
Organisers would also like to hear from anyone who has unwanted Christmas decorations or artificial trees which could be used for next year’s event.
Mrs Eden added that there is still a chance for creative writers to get involved and write a poem or short story inspired by the festival.
The best offerings will feature in a special book ahead of next year’s event.
Entries can be handed in at the library, Stowmarket Parish Church or the Museum of East Anglian Life by February 1, 2018.
Anyone wishing to decorate a tree for next year’s event or get involved can email stowmarket.parish@btconnect.com or call 01449 774652 from 10am – 1pm Monday to Friday.
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